If last summer’s Confederations Cup display is anything to go by, New Zealand could be in for a torrid time in South Africa.

However, their modest target of one solitary point is achievable in a group containing Italy, Slovakia and Paraguay, though tightening up their fragile defence is a must.

There are a handful of players in the squad that ply their trade in Britain, with the most established player Ryan Nelson on the books at Blackburn.

 

Originally from Christchurch, Nelson moved to Ewood Park from MLS outfit DC United in 2005, and has been a mainstay for Rovers ever since.

Commanding and committed, Nelson may not be the silkiest or quickest defenders around. But his professionalism will be invaluable for the Kiwis, who are taking part in only their second World Cup finals in their history.

Their participation is a personal triumph for Nelson, who has done his best to make himself available to the Kiwi set up since his debut in 1999, and at 33, this will almost certainly be his last chance of playing in a major tournament.